DIY: How to Make Calendula Oil at Home

Calendula oil is a natural oil that is extracted from calendula flowers using a simple, traditional method. It is a versatile oil that has been used for centuries for medicinal, cosmetic, and culinary purposes. Making calendula oil at home is easy and can be a fun DIY project for anyone interested in natural health and beauty.

The process of making calendula oil involves infusing the flowers in a carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. The process is simple and straightforward, and you can use dried or fresh flowers depending on your preference. Whether you want to use calendula oil topically for healing skin conditions, or to add flavor to your cooking, making your own calendula oil can be a rewarding experience that connects you with nature and allows you to take control of your own health and wellness.

Gathering Materials and Preparing Equipment

Calendula oil is a natural oil that can be easy to make at home. The first step to making calendula oil is to gather the necessary materials. Here are the things that you will need to make calendula oil:

1. Fresh or dried calendula flowers: You can either grow your own calendula flowers or purchase dried flowers from a reputable source.

2. Carrier oil: The most common carrier oil used for making calendula oil is olive oil. However, you can also use grapeseed, sweet almond, or jojoba oil.

3. A jar or container: You will need a glass jar or container to store the calendula flowers and carrier oil.

4. A strainer: You will need a strainer to separate the calendula flowers from the oil.

5. Cheesecloth: You will need cheesecloth to strain the calendula flowers from the oil.

Once you have gathered all of the necessary materials, you will need to prepare your equipment. Here’s how to do it:

1. Wash your jar or container: Make sure your jar or container is clean and dry before you start.

2. Place the calendula flowers in the jar: Fill the jar about ¾ full with the calendula flowers.

3. Pour the carrier oil over the calendula flowers: The carrier oil should completely cover the flowers.

4. Cover the jar with a lid: Screw on the lid tightly.

5. Place the jar in a sunny location: The jar should be in a sunny location for about 2-4 weeks.

6. Shake the jar regularly: Shake the jar once a day to distribute the oils and to prevent mold and bacteria from forming.

7. Strain the calendula oil: Using a strainer and cheesecloth, strain the calendula flowers from the oil.

8. Store the calendula oil: Transfer the calendula oil to a clean, dark-colored jar or container. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

9. Label your jar or container: Be sure to label your jar or container with the date and type of oil.

10. Enjoy your calendula oil: You can use your calendula oil in a variety of ways, including as a massage oil, skin healer, or topical treatment for wounds.

How to Make Calendula Oil: The Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking for a natural and versatile remedy for your skin, calendula oil may be just what you need. Calendula, or marigold, is a flower known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. By infusing its petals in oil, you can extract its beneficial compounds and use the resulting oil for various purposes, such as moisturizing, soothing, and healing your skin. Here’s how to make calendula oil at home, using either fresh or dried flowers.

1. Choose Your Flowers

The first step to making calendula oil is to select the right flowers. If you have access to fresh calendula, you can use them directly without drying them. It’s best to pick the petals in the morning, when the dew has evaporated and the flowers are at their freshest. If you don’t have fresh calendula, you can use dried flowers, which are available at health food stores and online. Make sure to choose organic, pesticide-free flowers for the best results.

2. Dry Your Flowers (If Using Dried)

If you’re using dried calendula flowers, you need to rehydrate them before infusing them in oil. To do so, place them in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes, or until they become plump and soft. Then, spread them on a clean towel and let them air-dry for a few hours, or until they are completely dry.

3. Prep Your Materials

Before starting the infusion process, make sure to have all your materials ready. You will need a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, a strainer or cheesecloth, and a carrier oil of your choice. Some good options for carrier oils include olive, jojoba, almond, coconut, and grapeseed oil. Make sure that the jar and the strainer are clean and dry.

4. Measure Your Ingredients

The next step is to measure your ingredients. You need to use a ratio of 1:2 or 1:3, which means one part of calendula to two or three parts of carrier oil. For example, if you have one cup of calendula petals, you should use two or three cups of carrier oil, depending on your preference and the size of your jar. Don’t pack the jar too tightly with the flowers, as they need room to move and release their oils.

5. Infuse Your Oil

Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start the infusion process. Place the calendula petals in the jar and cover them with the carrier oil, making sure that they are fully submerged. Stir gently to release any air bubbles and to distribute the oil evenly. Then, close the lid tightly and place the jar in a warm, sunny spot, such as a windowsill or a countertop.

6. Shake the Jar Daily

To extract the most potent compounds from the calendula, you need to shake the jar daily. This helps to agitate the petals and distribute their oils throughout the carrier oil. You can shake the jar several times a day if you want, but at least once a day is sufficient. Do this for four to six weeks, or until the oil has turned a deep yellow or orange color and has a strong calendula scent.

7. Strain Your Oil

Once the infusion process is complete, it’s time to strain the oil. Place the strainer or cheesecloth over a clean bowl or jar, and pour the infused oil through it. Press the petals gently with a spoon or spatula to release any remaining oil. Discard the spent petals, or compost them if you have a garden.

8. Bottle Your Oil

Now that you have your pure, homemade calendula oil, it’s time to transfer it to a clean and dry bottle or jar. You can use a dropper bottle or a larger bottle with a pump or a flip-top cap, depending on your preference and how you plan to use the oil. Make sure that the bottle is airtight and that you label it with the date and the contents.

9. Store Your Oil

To keep your calendula oil fresh and potent, store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a cupboard. You can also store it in the refrigerator, which will extend its shelf life and give it a soothing, cooling effect when you apply it to your skin. Make sure to use the oil within six to twelve months, as it may oxidize and lose its benefits over time.

10. Use Your Oil

Now that you have your homemade calendula oil, you can use it for various purposes. Some popular uses include:

– Moisturizing dry or damaged skin
– Soothing sunburns, rashes, or insect bites
– Healing cuts, bruises, or scars
– Massage oil for sore muscles or joints
– Hair conditioner or scalp treatment
– Nail and cuticle oil

To use the oil, simply apply a small amount to your skin or hair and massage it in gently. You can also mix it with other oils, such as lavender, tea tree, or chamomile oil, for added benefits and fragrance. Always do a patch test before using any new oil or product, and discontinue use if you experience any allergic reactions or irritation.

Choosing Your Calendula Flowers

If you want to make calendula oil, you need to choose the right type of calendula flowers. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best flowers:

Look for Organic Flowers

When possible, choose organic flowers. This means the flowers were grown without pesticides or other chemicals that could harm your skin.

Choose Fully Bloomed Flowers

You want to use flowers that are fully bloomed, with the petals spread out and no signs of fading. This indicates that the flowers are at their peak potency.

Harvest Your Own Flowers

If you have calendula growing in your garden, you can harvest your own flowers. Make sure you wait until the flowers are fully bloomed before harvesting them.

Avoid Flowers with Signs of Mold

Make sure there are no signs of mold on your flowers. If you notice any black or brown spots on the flowers, don’t use them.

Consider the Color of the Flowers

Calendula flowers come in different colors, including yellow, orange, and red. While the color of the flowers won’t affect the effectiveness of your oil, some people prefer to use a certain color for aesthetic reasons.

Whatever color you choose, make sure the flowers are fresh and free of any signs of damage or decay. With the right flowers, you can make a high-quality calendula oil that is perfect for your skin care needs.

Time to Wrap It Up

Congratulations, now not only do you know what calendula oil is, but you can also make it in the comfort of your own home! Making calendula oil is a fun way to connect with nature and embrace the healing power of plants. We hope you found this article helpful and enjoyable, and don’t forget to share your calendula oil experiences with us in the comments section. Thanks for reading, and see you again soon for more fun DIY projects!